Dinner at AKA, An American Bistro, in Old Town Pasadena
Posted on May 19, 2011 under Archives | No Comment
AKA Bistro
I recently took my neighbor Todd to visit AKA, An American Bistro, restaurant in Old Town Pasadena. The new eatery opened in mid February in the old Gordon Biersche space.
The classic American tavern has exposed brick walls, floor to ceiling glass doors opening to the outside courtyard, huge butcher block tables and cozy booths, a large bar area and a back area wine cellar. Chef Jonathan Weiner cooked us some delicious food, here is a sampling of what we tasted.
Portobello fries
Owner Robert Simon stopped by and recommended we try the famous portobello fries. Prior to the Pasadena AKA, Simon owned the original outpost in St. Helena which has since shut down. Robert and his wife Deborah also own the well-known Bistro 45 in Pasadena.
Our crispy fires were delicious and served with a creamy truffle aioli. We could have eaten a barrel of these.
Charcurterie
Next came a nice charcurterie plate with homemade mustards and salami, as well as a country pate, foie gras, parma prosciutto and olives. All delicious.
Pan seared Scottish salmon
I ordered the pan seared Scottish salmon, which came with a great side salad of baby mushrooms and vegetables. The salmon was cooked perfectly and had a nice crispy skin.
Side salad
My neighbor Todd had the huge grilled double cut fresh pork chop. It was awesome in size and in taste. Served with brussel sprouts, carrots and apple butter, we devoured it.
double cut pork chop
Before dessert, Chef Jonathan Weiner came out to say hello. We were surprised how young he was as the food reflected a chef with a vast amount of experience behind the kitchen. He shared with us that AKA tries to utilize organic sustainable products as much as possible and makes house specialties such as the mustards, chorizo and salamis.
Chef Jonathan Weiner
Chef Wiener then sent out a warm chocolate cake with home made peanut butter ice cream. A great way to end our lovely meal.
warm chocolate cake
I highly recommend stopping by AKA next time you visit Old Town, to sit outside and enjoy an appetizer and a great glass of wine or to have a leisurely dinner with excellent comfort food. Reservations recommended, 41 Hugus Alley, at One Colorado in Old Town Pasadena, 626/564-8111.